ethos

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Academic · Technical

n. the way a speaker shows they are trustworthy or an expert to persuade an audience.

n. a rhetorical appeal based on the character or projected credibility of the speaker or writer.

“The lawyer built his ethos by mentioning his twenty years of experience in court.”

“In her opening statement, the scientist established her ethos by citing her extensive fieldwork and peer-reviewed publications.”

C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Theater Academic · Literary

n. the qualities in art that show the calm, ideal character of a culture rather than strong emotions.

n. the aesthetic quality in a work of art that expresses ideal or universal character, often contrasted with emotional 'pathos'.

“The calm ethos of the ancient statues showed the values of that society.”

“Critics noted that the mural captured the collective ethos of the post-war era through its focus on stoic, monumental figures.”